Group Counseling at the University of Oregon Counseling Center

Group counseling offers unique therapeutic possibilities to address a variety of student concerns. The goal of this handout is to answer some frequently asked questions about group counseling so that you may learn more about this frequently recommended form of therapy.

What Is Group Counseling Really Like?

Groups are typically composed of 5-8 members who meet weekly for 1 ½ hours. The issues discussed in the group are generated by the group members, with guidance and facilitation by trained group leader(s). Some of our groups are time-limited and topic-focused. Other groups are open-ended and not focused on a particular topic. Confidentiality among group members is always required.

What Are The Advantages Of Group Counseling?

• A group provides opportunities to learn with and from other people and to understand your own patterns of thoughts and behaviors (as well as those of others). Other people can often see attitudes and behavior patterns that are limiting and that may be difficult to see in yourself.
• A group is an opportunity to receive genuine support, honest feedback, and useful alternatives from peers.
• A group is an opportunity to experiment with and work toward new attitudes and new ways of coping with life's stressors.
• A group may also help individuals deal with relationship concerns and general difficulties in dealing with other people.

For What Types Of Concerns Is Group Counseling Most Helpful?

Group counseling is especially helpful for the following types of student concerns:
"My relationships with others are unsatisfactory, very frustrating, and/or disappointing."
"People don't react to me the way I would like them to."
"I feel stuck in a particular pattern or role in my relationships with others."
"I feel lonely and unsupported. Others don't seem to understand me."
"I lack assertiveness. I either don't address differences and disagreements or my disagreements with others turn into hostile conflict."
"I want to change my way of thinking and feeling about myself."
Group counseling is one of the most direct way to provide the type of contact needed to work through these concerns.

One Last Thing To Note

Students often feel a bit nervous or uncomfortable with the idea of joining a group. It's important to remember that the group leader is aware of this and will work with the group to make the environment supportive and safe. Remember that pursuing or confronting the things that make us most anxious can sometimes be the most beneficial way to help us change.